Translation guide
The English word 'reset' covers restarting devices, clearing settings, and returning to an original state. Japanese uses different verbs and nouns depending on what is being reset and how.
To restart a computer, phone, game, or other electronic device, often to fix a problem.
The most common and neutral way to say 'restart' for computers, phones, and software.
パソコンを再起動してください。
Please restart your computer.
The app froze, so I restarted it.
Often used for 'reset' in the sense of pressing a reset button or restoring factory settings. Can imply a more thorough reset than just restarting.
ルーターのリセットボタンを押してください。
Press the reset button on the router.
スマホをリセットしたら直った。
It got fixed after I reset my smartphone.
Noun form of 'restart'. Used in menus and technical contexts.
再起動が必要です。
A restart is required.
To clear all custom settings and return a device, app, or system to its original factory state.
Means 'initialize' or 'reset to factory settings'. Used for formatting devices, clearing data, and restoring defaults.
スマホを初期化する前にバックアップを取ってください。
Please back up your data before resetting your smartphone.
パスワードを忘れたので、ルーターを初期化した。
I forgot the password, so I reset the router to factory settings.
Also used for factory reset, especially in consumer contexts. Often interchangeable with 初期化する.
設定をリセットして初期状態に戻します。
Reset the settings to return to the original state.
Literally 'return to factory shipment state'. A technical phrase used in manuals or support.
端末を工場出荷状態に戻す方法を教えてください。
Please tell me how to reset the device to factory settings.
To set a counter, clock, or gauge back to zero or a starting value.
The standard verb for resetting counters, timers, and digital measurements.
タイマーをリセットしてください。
Please reset the timer.
走行距離計をリセットした。
I reset the trip meter.
Literally 'return to zero'. Used for analog gauges or when emphasizing the zero point.
カウンターをゼロに戻してください。
Please reset the counter to zero.
To start over in a relationship, project, or personal situation, often after a problem.
Means 'do over' or 'start again'. Used for relationships, work, and life situations.
二人の関係をやり直したい。
I want to reset our relationship.
失敗したので、最初からやり直します。
I failed, so I'll start over from the beginning.
Metaphorical use of 'reset', common in casual speech about relationships or mental state.
気持ちをリセットして、また頑張ろう。
Let's reset our feelings and try again.
Literally 'return to a blank sheet'. Means to wipe the slate clean and start fresh.
過去のことは白紙に戻して、新しく始めよう。
Let's reset the past and start anew.
To put a dislocated joint or broken bone back into proper position.
Medical term for reducing a dislocation or fracture.
医師が脱臼した肩を整復した。
The doctor reset the dislocated shoulder.
Everyday phrase meaning 'put the bone back in place'.
骨折した腕の骨を元に戻してもらった。
I had the broken bone in my arm reset.
再起動 means restart (power cycle). リセット often implies pressing a reset button or restoring settings, but can overlap with restart. 初期化 means initialization or factory reset, which erases data and settings.
While リセットする can be used metaphorically for relationships, it may sound flippant. やり直す is safer and more natural for serious relationship talk.